Drivers in Renfrew can expect some long-awaited relief tomorrow as Arkleston Road is finally set to reopen—albeit partially—following a dramatic bridge crash earlier this month.
The busy road, which serves as a key access route to the M8 motorway, has been closed since June 4 after a lorry travelling westbound on the M8 struck the bridge that runs over it. The impact caused significant structural damage, with chunks of concrete raining down onto the motorway lanes below, forcing an emergency closure of the westbound section of the M8 and immediate bridge inspections. ( pictures from 4th June below )
After weeks of disruption and repairs, concrete barriers were seen being installed on Wednesday as preparations were made to reopen the road. From tomorrow, one lane of Arkleston Road will be open to traffic, with temporary traffic lights controlling the flow in each direction.
While the full reopening of the road will come as a relief to many, drivers are being urged to plan ahead and expect some delays, particularly during peak times.
The incident has highlighted the vulnerability of key transport infrastructure and the knock-on effect a single incident can have on wider traffic networks.
We’ll continue to monitor updates from Renfrewshire Council and Transport Scotland as more details become available about long-term repairs and a full reopening timeline.
Paisley Photographs 